Red Cedar Trail Half Marathon and 38k at Giant City State Park

🏞️ Race Overview

• Location: Giant City State Park, Makanda, IL
• Date: 2025-05-24
• Event: Red Cedar Trail Half Marathon and 38k
• Registration: Register here

🌲 Course Details

• Terrain: Mostly single track, with gravel road connectors, horse trails, fields, and less than a mile of paved road connectors.
• Elevation: Over 1500 feet of elevation gain (one loop).
• Water Crossings: Expect the possibility of getting your feet wet in several creek crossings, rain dependent.
• Start Location: Pavilion 5 Start/Finish GPS

⏱️ Event Schedule

• Packet Pickup: 6:00-6:45 am on race day.
• Early Pickup: 5:00-6:00 pm at Pavilion 5 (the same location as start/finish).
• Course Marking: Ribbons, arrows, directional signs, and confidence markers.
• Open Course: Expect casual hikers and horseback riders: be courteous and announce your presence.

🚰 Aid Stations

• Aid Stations: 2 well-stocked stations and 1 water station on the course.
• Self-Sufficiency: Be prepared for a potentially lengthy interval between aid stations.
• Race Type: This is a cupless race: no cups will be provided on the course.
• Preparation: Bring your own hydration solution accordingly.

🎁 Finisher Perks

• SWAG: Each participant receives a swag bag full of goodies.
• T-Shirt: Available for an add-on fee of $10: guaranteed shirt requests end on April 20th.
• Finisher Medal: Every finisher will receive a medal and a complimentary beer from the lodge (21+ older).
• Alternative Beverage: Non-alcoholic options are also available for finishers.

🍗 Post-Race Amenities

• Dining: The Giant City Lodge offers dining options for participants, family, and friends.
• Signature Dish: Don't miss their famous fried chicken!
• Accommodations: Cabins for rent at the Giant City Lodge: book early as May is busy!
• Camping: Electric and primitive camping options available at the park.

🏨 Nearby Stays

• Hotels: Carbondale is a 15-20 minute drive away for hotel options.
• BnB Options: Numerous nearby bed and breakfast establishments are available.
• Contact: Call the lodge at (618) 457-4921 for more information.
• Plan Ahead: Consider your accommodations early to ensure a comfortable stay.